| abstract |
Embodiments disclosed herein include devices, methods, and systems for direct, selective, and sensitive detection of single-stranded and double-stranded target DNA sequences from various sources using a programmed Cas12a protein. When activated by binding a target DNA sequence, the Cas12a cleaves a tether releasing a reporter molecule that may then be detected. In some embodiments, the systems, methods, and devices may include a filter or membrane that may help to separate the tethered and untethered reporter molecules. These devices, systems, and techniques allow a user to rapidly process samples that may contain the target DNA, without needing to amplify the target sequences. These devices and methods may be used to assay a wide variety of samples and target DNA sources, for the presence or absence of a specific target DNA sequences. Compositions and kits, useful in practicing these methods, for example detecting a target DNA in a biological sample, are also described. |